Daily Bread - 05/19/07
John 4:24 - God is the Spirit and those who worship Him by necessity worship Him in Spirit and Truth.
Although, we could just consider truth as sincerity of the heart it goes far beyond that. Certainly, sincerity of the heart is part of what God establishes in our life through the washing or regeneration and renewing of the Holy Spirit; for God desires truth in the inward parts and in the hidden parts He will make us to know wisdom (Titus 3:5; Psalms 51:6). Yet what far surpasses sincerity and purity of heart is the word of God. Although Jesus is the truth the way and the life we know that He established beyond all question the superiority of the word of God - which is the word of truth (Titus 3:5; Psalms 51:6). Yet, what far surpasses sincerity and purity of heart is the word of God. Although Jesus is the truth the way and the life we know that He established beyond all question the superiority of the word of God, which is the word of truth (John 17:17; Ephesians 1:13; Colossians 1:15; Malachi 2:6; John 1:17; 6:63; 12:47-48). It has always been God's desire that His people learn to live by the word so He taught Israel that, "man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God" (Deuteronomy 8:3; Luke 4:4). He taught Joshua to not let the word depart out of his mouth but to meditate on it both day and night that he might observe to do it; for then he would make his way prosperous and have good success (Joshua 1:8).
If we are going to worship God in the way that He has desired, then we are going to do it as the word of God describes. Our attitude before Him must be one of confidence and assurance according to his exceeding great and precious promises (2 Peter 1:4; Ephesians 3:12; Hebrews 10:35). We have been born of the word of God and He has written His word upon the tables of our heart so that we will do them (2 Corinthians 3:3; Hebrews 8:10; 10:6). The word of God has brought faith into our hearts so that we might please Him (Hebrews 11:6). The Holy Spirit has come to teach us the word of God and to lead us and guide us into all the truth of His word (John 16:13). By the word of God we are set free from every lie that would attempt to ensnare us and hold us back from the greatness of this life in Christ Jesus (John 8:32; 2 Corinthians 6:7; Acts 20:32; Romans 10:8; 1 Thessalonians 2:13).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Saturday, May 19, 2007
Friday, May 18, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/18/07
John 4:42 - And they said to the woman, it is no longer because of what you have said that we believe, for we ourselves hear and we have seen that this is truly the Savior of the world, the Christ.
The sincere faith that was expressed by these Samaritans was simply amazing. Although, they were kinsmen to the Jews they became despised by them because of their intermarriage with Gentiles (John 4:9; 8:48). Yet how is it that they were able to recognize the Savior when those who should have recognized Him could not? Could it be that the Jews became so ensnared by their own self confidence and pride that they had lost their sense of truth? The Samaritans seemed to have an ability to be sensitive to the witness of the Holy Spirit that was flowing forth from Jesus that those of the nation of Israel were incapable of.
It did not take a lengthy discussion and lots of proofs to convince the Samaritans. When they encountered the love and acceptance that Jesus showed these rejected people they were convinced that this is truly the Savior of the world. Surely, they had heard that a great prophet was traveling around the neighboring cities of Judea and Galilee, who some claimed was indeed the Messiah but when they saw Him in His love they were convinced that the Savior had truly come. Somehow in all of their ignorance they understood what even the disciples failed to grasp, that when the Messiah came He would not only be the Savior of the Jewish nation but of the whole world. In fact, this is the only time in the Gospels that Jesus, is called Savior by men.
The only other time that Jesus is called Savior in the Gospels was in the salutation of the angels in Luke 2:11. Even though His very name means Savior, Yehoshua (YHWH our Savior) it was only the Samaritans who had the revelation to utter it. Does God desire to communicate a profound revelation to us by the faith of the Centurion and the Syrophenician woman along with the revelation of the Samaritans (Matthew 8:5; Mark 7:26)? By these examples I believe that the Lord wants us to understand how blinded and insensitive to the Holy Spirit our own self confidence and pride makes us. If we will simply believe the good news and come to adore Jesus having no confidence in our own ability then we will find the realms of glory that we have been invited to (Philippians 3:3; John 15:5; Isaiah 66:1-2; 1 Peter 5:5).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 4:42 - And they said to the woman, it is no longer because of what you have said that we believe, for we ourselves hear and we have seen that this is truly the Savior of the world, the Christ.
The sincere faith that was expressed by these Samaritans was simply amazing. Although, they were kinsmen to the Jews they became despised by them because of their intermarriage with Gentiles (John 4:9; 8:48). Yet how is it that they were able to recognize the Savior when those who should have recognized Him could not? Could it be that the Jews became so ensnared by their own self confidence and pride that they had lost their sense of truth? The Samaritans seemed to have an ability to be sensitive to the witness of the Holy Spirit that was flowing forth from Jesus that those of the nation of Israel were incapable of.
It did not take a lengthy discussion and lots of proofs to convince the Samaritans. When they encountered the love and acceptance that Jesus showed these rejected people they were convinced that this is truly the Savior of the world. Surely, they had heard that a great prophet was traveling around the neighboring cities of Judea and Galilee, who some claimed was indeed the Messiah but when they saw Him in His love they were convinced that the Savior had truly come. Somehow in all of their ignorance they understood what even the disciples failed to grasp, that when the Messiah came He would not only be the Savior of the Jewish nation but of the whole world. In fact, this is the only time in the Gospels that Jesus, is called Savior by men.
The only other time that Jesus is called Savior in the Gospels was in the salutation of the angels in Luke 2:11. Even though His very name means Savior, Yehoshua (YHWH our Savior) it was only the Samaritans who had the revelation to utter it. Does God desire to communicate a profound revelation to us by the faith of the Centurion and the Syrophenician woman along with the revelation of the Samaritans (Matthew 8:5; Mark 7:26)? By these examples I believe that the Lord wants us to understand how blinded and insensitive to the Holy Spirit our own self confidence and pride makes us. If we will simply believe the good news and come to adore Jesus having no confidence in our own ability then we will find the realms of glory that we have been invited to (Philippians 3:3; John 15:5; Isaiah 66:1-2; 1 Peter 5:5).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/17/07
John 4:10 - Jesus replied and said to her, If you knew about the gift of God and who it is that is saying to you, Give me a drink, you would have asked him and he would give you living water.
Although the Samaritan woman does not seem to understand what Jesus means by living water, the symbolism is not foreign to scripture. God referred to Himself as the fountain of living water (Jeremiah 2:13; 17:13). He also made it known by the prophet Isaiah that there were wells of salvation from which men could draw out water (Isaiah 12:3). Jesus identifies Himself as the well or the fountain from where this water is supplied (John 7:37-39; Exodus 17:6; Psalms 78:15; 105:14; 1 Corinthians 10:4). The water of life is available to anyone who ask, even to a Samaritan woman who is steeped in sin. As a result of drinking the living water the one who drinks also becomes a fountain from where the living water springs up.
The living water in the heart of those who receive becomes a fountain springing up and a river flowing forth, forever supplying a continual flow of the Spirit so that those who have it will never thirst for that which cannot satisfy ever again (John 4:10-14; 7:37-39). The living water that Jesus is referring to is the pouring forth of the Holy Spirit (Isaiah 44:3; Joel 2:28; John 7:37-39; Luke 24:49; Acts 2:1-4; Matthew 3:11;). The gift of God, which is the living water is shown to be the gift of the Holy Spirit several times in both the Old and the New Testament (John 7:37-39; Isaiah 44:3; Acts 2:38; 8:20; 10:45; 11:17; 2 Timothy 1:6). It is the Holy Spirit that brings to us the new birth and function in our lives to bring forth all that the pleasures and fruits of the nature of God in our lives (John 3:5; Psalms 36:8; 46:4; Galatians 5:22; 1 John 3:24; Romans 14:17; 2 Peter 1:3-4; Titus 3:5; Romans 8:2; 1 Corinthians 2:12; 2 Corinthians 5:17-18; Ezekiel 36:26-27). If we hunger and thirst after righteousness God will supply us with His Spirit so that the righteousness, peace and joy of the Kingdom of God fills us to overflowing (Isaiah 55:1; Matthew 5:6; John 4:14; John 6:35; John 7:37-39; Romans 14:17; Matthew 6:33; John 3:5).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 4:10 - Jesus replied and said to her, If you knew about the gift of God and who it is that is saying to you, Give me a drink, you would have asked him and he would give you living water.
Although the Samaritan woman does not seem to understand what Jesus means by living water, the symbolism is not foreign to scripture. God referred to Himself as the fountain of living water (Jeremiah 2:13; 17:13). He also made it known by the prophet Isaiah that there were wells of salvation from which men could draw out water (Isaiah 12:3). Jesus identifies Himself as the well or the fountain from where this water is supplied (John 7:37-39; Exodus 17:6; Psalms 78:15; 105:14; 1 Corinthians 10:4). The water of life is available to anyone who ask, even to a Samaritan woman who is steeped in sin. As a result of drinking the living water the one who drinks also becomes a fountain from where the living water springs up.
The living water in the heart of those who receive becomes a fountain springing up and a river flowing forth, forever supplying a continual flow of the Spirit so that those who have it will never thirst for that which cannot satisfy ever again (John 4:10-14; 7:37-39). The living water that Jesus is referring to is the pouring forth of the Holy Spirit (Isaiah 44:3; Joel 2:28; John 7:37-39; Luke 24:49; Acts 2:1-4; Matthew 3:11;). The gift of God, which is the living water is shown to be the gift of the Holy Spirit several times in both the Old and the New Testament (John 7:37-39; Isaiah 44:3; Acts 2:38; 8:20; 10:45; 11:17; 2 Timothy 1:6). It is the Holy Spirit that brings to us the new birth and function in our lives to bring forth all that the pleasures and fruits of the nature of God in our lives (John 3:5; Psalms 36:8; 46:4; Galatians 5:22; 1 John 3:24; Romans 14:17; 2 Peter 1:3-4; Titus 3:5; Romans 8:2; 1 Corinthians 2:12; 2 Corinthians 5:17-18; Ezekiel 36:26-27). If we hunger and thirst after righteousness God will supply us with His Spirit so that the righteousness, peace and joy of the Kingdom of God fills us to overflowing (Isaiah 55:1; Matthew 5:6; John 4:14; John 6:35; John 7:37-39; Romans 14:17; Matthew 6:33; John 3:5).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/16/07
John 10:8 - Everyone who came before Me are thieves and robbers; but the sheep did not hear them.
Jesus was telling everyone for all time in no uncertain terms that He is the only way to the Father (Acts 4:12; 1 Timothy 2:5; John 17:3; Philippians 2:10; Acts 10:43; John 3:36; Mark 16:16). Only through Him can mankind return to a relationship with God. When Jesus referred to all those who came before Him, He was referring to every false leader on earth who came declaring to mankind that they knew the way to God. Jesus was not only referring to the religious leaders of the day, nor was He narrowly looking at the "lost sheep of the house of Israel." God's love was extended to everyone and He knew that the gift of salvation would be granted to all men everywhere (John 3:16; 12:32; 1 Timothy 2:6; 1 John 2:2).
Jesus is the door to every blessing in God and all of the benefits of abundant life (Ephesians 1:3; 3 John 1:2; Psalms 68:19; 103:2). As the good Shepard He has come to lead us into all of these wonderful things that God has prepared for those who love Him (1 Corinthians 2:9; Isaiah 64:4; Deuteronomy 28:1-13; James 1:17; 2 Peter 1:3). The false shepherds steal from the sheep like thieves and robbers. They steal the word of life, holding the people in blindness and poverty - and even take the food from off of the table of those they victimize (Jeremiah 23:1-2; Ezekiel 34:2-3). This is not so with the Good Shepard - who not only laid down His life for the sheep but provides all that they have need of according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19; 2 Corinthians 8:9; 9:8-11).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 10:8 - Everyone who came before Me are thieves and robbers; but the sheep did not hear them.
Jesus was telling everyone for all time in no uncertain terms that He is the only way to the Father (Acts 4:12; 1 Timothy 2:5; John 17:3; Philippians 2:10; Acts 10:43; John 3:36; Mark 16:16). Only through Him can mankind return to a relationship with God. When Jesus referred to all those who came before Him, He was referring to every false leader on earth who came declaring to mankind that they knew the way to God. Jesus was not only referring to the religious leaders of the day, nor was He narrowly looking at the "lost sheep of the house of Israel." God's love was extended to everyone and He knew that the gift of salvation would be granted to all men everywhere (John 3:16; 12:32; 1 Timothy 2:6; 1 John 2:2).
Jesus is the door to every blessing in God and all of the benefits of abundant life (Ephesians 1:3; 3 John 1:2; Psalms 68:19; 103:2). As the good Shepard He has come to lead us into all of these wonderful things that God has prepared for those who love Him (1 Corinthians 2:9; Isaiah 64:4; Deuteronomy 28:1-13; James 1:17; 2 Peter 1:3). The false shepherds steal from the sheep like thieves and robbers. They steal the word of life, holding the people in blindness and poverty - and even take the food from off of the table of those they victimize (Jeremiah 23:1-2; Ezekiel 34:2-3). This is not so with the Good Shepard - who not only laid down His life for the sheep but provides all that they have need of according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19; 2 Corinthians 8:9; 9:8-11).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/15/07
John 5:44 - How are you able to believe when you seek glory from one another and you do not seek the glory that only comes from God?
Truth and reality has never been popular in the social and political structures of man. When Jesus came proclaiming the message of salvation and actually demonstrating the glory of God, many of those who held important positions were threatened by Him. They were so caught away in their own rules and regulations that they had become furious that Jesus worked a miracle on the sabbath (John 5:16). Jesus attempted to explain to them exactly why He did the miracle on the sabbath. He was only doing what the Father showed Him to do. Because His heart was fixed on doing the will of the Father, He did not even consider what they thought (John 5:17, 19-20, 30). Jesus explained to these angry men why the glory of the Father was revealed in His life. The primary focus of the message is that He lived only to honor the Father and to do His will. Therefore, at the heart of everything that Jesus was doing was His relationship that He had with the Father as His Son (John 5:19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25). Because of this relationship that He had with the Father, it was the Father who gave Him glory and honor by testifying on His behalf through these miracles (John 5:32, 36, 37).
The concluding statement of Jesus to these leaders is key to our understanding how to function in the faith of God. We must realize above all else that it is essential to be totally committed to the will of God. With this commitment we must also understand that we can do nothing of ourselves and to attempt to - even out of a desire to please the Father - will result in failure. Above everything else, our relationship with the Father must be first.
Jesus makes it imperative that we seek the glory (Gr-doxa), which only comes from God (Exodus 34:29; Romans 2:7; Romans 8:18; 1 Corinthians 2:7; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 1 Thessalonians 2:12; 1 Peter 1:11; 1 Peter 5:10; 2 Peter 1:3). We must be cautious of the fact that if we seek the glory that comes from men it will run direct interference with the glory that comes from the Father. If we are careful to always do everything out of relationship with God, seeking only His honor and glory above all other things, then we will be empowered to function in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 5:44 - How are you able to believe when you seek glory from one another and you do not seek the glory that only comes from God?
Truth and reality has never been popular in the social and political structures of man. When Jesus came proclaiming the message of salvation and actually demonstrating the glory of God, many of those who held important positions were threatened by Him. They were so caught away in their own rules and regulations that they had become furious that Jesus worked a miracle on the sabbath (John 5:16). Jesus attempted to explain to them exactly why He did the miracle on the sabbath. He was only doing what the Father showed Him to do. Because His heart was fixed on doing the will of the Father, He did not even consider what they thought (John 5:17, 19-20, 30). Jesus explained to these angry men why the glory of the Father was revealed in His life. The primary focus of the message is that He lived only to honor the Father and to do His will. Therefore, at the heart of everything that Jesus was doing was His relationship that He had with the Father as His Son (John 5:19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25). Because of this relationship that He had with the Father, it was the Father who gave Him glory and honor by testifying on His behalf through these miracles (John 5:32, 36, 37).
The concluding statement of Jesus to these leaders is key to our understanding how to function in the faith of God. We must realize above all else that it is essential to be totally committed to the will of God. With this commitment we must also understand that we can do nothing of ourselves and to attempt to - even out of a desire to please the Father - will result in failure. Above everything else, our relationship with the Father must be first.
Jesus makes it imperative that we seek the glory (Gr-doxa), which only comes from God (Exodus 34:29; Romans 2:7; Romans 8:18; 1 Corinthians 2:7; 2 Corinthians 3:18; 1 Thessalonians 2:12; 1 Peter 1:11; 1 Peter 5:10; 2 Peter 1:3). We must be cautious of the fact that if we seek the glory that comes from men it will run direct interference with the glory that comes from the Father. If we are careful to always do everything out of relationship with God, seeking only His honor and glory above all other things, then we will be empowered to function in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Monday, May 14, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/14/07
Acts 11:18 - And when they heard these things they grew silent and glorified God saying, also unto the Gentiles God has given repentance unto life.
Repentance is a gift that is granted to us by God. Repentance takes us from spiritual death to life and from spiritual darkness to light (Ephesians 2:1; 5:18; Colossians 2:13; 1 Peter 2:19). Repentance takes us beyond just being sorry but results in a forgiveness that frees us from both the deed and the guilt of wrongdoing (Hebrews 9:14; Acts 5:31; Titus 3:5; Ephesians 1:7; Revelation 1:5; Acts 26:18). For example, Judas was sorry (Gr-metamellomai), but his being sorry did not result in seeking forgiveness (Matthew 27:3). God grants us the gift of having a complete change of mind (Gr-metanoian).
When the light of the gospel shines into our heart and we realize that God loves us and has called us to His own realm of life and righteousness, the weight and guilt of sin stands before us. Because of God's unspeakable gift He has provided the blood of Jesus to wash away every stain of sin and free us from all of the past with one simple request from our heart (Romans 10:9-10, 13; Acts 16:31; Matthew 26:28; Romans 3:25). The gift of repentance gives us a change of heart, a change of desires, and a change of life because God makes all things new (2 Corinthians 5:18; Jeremiah 31:33; Ezekiel 36:26; Acts 3:26; 1 Peter 1:22; Ephesians 4:23-24). Because of this change we feel differently about sin; it is not something we want; rather, we begin to desire righteousness and purity for our lives. The deception of sin and darkness that once blinded us to the truth and reality of God is removed by this simple act of repentance (2 Corinthians 4:4; Revelation 13:14).
God in His amazing love for us also grants us the privilege of being forgiving as many times as is necessary if we simply come to Him in repentance (Luke 17:3-4; Matthew 18:22, 35; 6:15). His forgiveness is totally unlike the forgiveness of man because He restores us to a relationship with Himself as though we had never done anything wrong. He erases our sins and never again remembers them so that there is no threat of repercussions in the future (Hebrews 8:12; 10:17; Isaiah 43:25; 44:22; Jeremiah 50:20; Micah 7:19; 1 John 1:9; Revelation 1:5).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 11:18 - And when they heard these things they grew silent and glorified God saying, also unto the Gentiles God has given repentance unto life.
Repentance is a gift that is granted to us by God. Repentance takes us from spiritual death to life and from spiritual darkness to light (Ephesians 2:1; 5:18; Colossians 2:13; 1 Peter 2:19). Repentance takes us beyond just being sorry but results in a forgiveness that frees us from both the deed and the guilt of wrongdoing (Hebrews 9:14; Acts 5:31; Titus 3:5; Ephesians 1:7; Revelation 1:5; Acts 26:18). For example, Judas was sorry (Gr-metamellomai), but his being sorry did not result in seeking forgiveness (Matthew 27:3). God grants us the gift of having a complete change of mind (Gr-metanoian).
When the light of the gospel shines into our heart and we realize that God loves us and has called us to His own realm of life and righteousness, the weight and guilt of sin stands before us. Because of God's unspeakable gift He has provided the blood of Jesus to wash away every stain of sin and free us from all of the past with one simple request from our heart (Romans 10:9-10, 13; Acts 16:31; Matthew 26:28; Romans 3:25). The gift of repentance gives us a change of heart, a change of desires, and a change of life because God makes all things new (2 Corinthians 5:18; Jeremiah 31:33; Ezekiel 36:26; Acts 3:26; 1 Peter 1:22; Ephesians 4:23-24). Because of this change we feel differently about sin; it is not something we want; rather, we begin to desire righteousness and purity for our lives. The deception of sin and darkness that once blinded us to the truth and reality of God is removed by this simple act of repentance (2 Corinthians 4:4; Revelation 13:14).
God in His amazing love for us also grants us the privilege of being forgiving as many times as is necessary if we simply come to Him in repentance (Luke 17:3-4; Matthew 18:22, 35; 6:15). His forgiveness is totally unlike the forgiveness of man because He restores us to a relationship with Himself as though we had never done anything wrong. He erases our sins and never again remembers them so that there is no threat of repercussions in the future (Hebrews 8:12; 10:17; Isaiah 43:25; 44:22; Jeremiah 50:20; Micah 7:19; 1 John 1:9; Revelation 1:5).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Friday, May 11, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/11/07
Romans 8:18 - For I calculate that this which befalls us now for a season is not worthy of the glory that is about to be revealed in us.
Paul's calculation is that the level of suffering that we endure now is not even in the same category with the glory that is about to be revealed. When Paul was writing to the Corinthians he referred to this suffering as a light affliction (2 Corinthians 4:17). The Greek word that Paul uses to help us put things into proper prospective is "logizomai" which refers to a logical reality. Now the logical calculation is that the suffering is so insignificant in comparison to the glory that it is almost meaningless.
How are we supposed to deal with the suffering and pain that we encounter here in this life? Paul, who had more than his share of opposition and turmoil, reveals to us how to live life free from discouragement. All we need to do is realize that the hand of God is shaping us for greatness both now and in the future. We must realize that He is not only with us through these things but He is so close to us that we are under His shadow (Psalms 91:1). We must realize that whatever groanings we may encounter today will be overshadowed by the glorious liberties of tomorrow. As a result, we will not lose our confidence and joy which will result in a great reward (Hebrews 10:35; 3:6; 11:26).
Jesus endured the sufferings of the cross with joy realizing that it would result in our salvation and His exaltation (Hebrews 12:2). We are also called to share in the same sufferings of Christ which are all about advancing the gospel but it must be kept in the same perspective (Philippians 3:10; 2 Timothy 2:12). However, many of the things that we go through are simply Father's desire to give us something far better than what we have now (1 Peter 1:6-7; James 1:2-3). One Christmas morning I had given one of my sons, who was about three at the time, one of his gifts. It was a very small toy that he immediately thought was the greatest thing ever. I had something far better for him that I wanted him to have but he was so distracted with his new little toy that he would not come over and unwrap his bigger present. Of course I was very excited about the gift that I had for him so in order to redirect his attention I took the little toy away from him after some struggle. It ended up in a disaster because he thought that I was punishing him when all I wanted him to do was to set his little eyes on the main event of that Christmas morning. We must realize that no matter what we are enduring Father has a bigger blessing awaiting us. We must not allow ourselves to sink into the despair of what we may have lost but keep our eyes set on what we are to gain.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Romans 8:18 - For I calculate that this which befalls us now for a season is not worthy of the glory that is about to be revealed in us.
Paul's calculation is that the level of suffering that we endure now is not even in the same category with the glory that is about to be revealed. When Paul was writing to the Corinthians he referred to this suffering as a light affliction (2 Corinthians 4:17). The Greek word that Paul uses to help us put things into proper prospective is "logizomai" which refers to a logical reality. Now the logical calculation is that the suffering is so insignificant in comparison to the glory that it is almost meaningless.
How are we supposed to deal with the suffering and pain that we encounter here in this life? Paul, who had more than his share of opposition and turmoil, reveals to us how to live life free from discouragement. All we need to do is realize that the hand of God is shaping us for greatness both now and in the future. We must realize that He is not only with us through these things but He is so close to us that we are under His shadow (Psalms 91:1). We must realize that whatever groanings we may encounter today will be overshadowed by the glorious liberties of tomorrow. As a result, we will not lose our confidence and joy which will result in a great reward (Hebrews 10:35; 3:6; 11:26).
Jesus endured the sufferings of the cross with joy realizing that it would result in our salvation and His exaltation (Hebrews 12:2). We are also called to share in the same sufferings of Christ which are all about advancing the gospel but it must be kept in the same perspective (Philippians 3:10; 2 Timothy 2:12). However, many of the things that we go through are simply Father's desire to give us something far better than what we have now (1 Peter 1:6-7; James 1:2-3). One Christmas morning I had given one of my sons, who was about three at the time, one of his gifts. It was a very small toy that he immediately thought was the greatest thing ever. I had something far better for him that I wanted him to have but he was so distracted with his new little toy that he would not come over and unwrap his bigger present. Of course I was very excited about the gift that I had for him so in order to redirect his attention I took the little toy away from him after some struggle. It ended up in a disaster because he thought that I was punishing him when all I wanted him to do was to set his little eyes on the main event of that Christmas morning. We must realize that no matter what we are enduring Father has a bigger blessing awaiting us. We must not allow ourselves to sink into the despair of what we may have lost but keep our eyes set on what we are to gain.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/10/07
Acts 8:4 - Then those who were scattered went about preaching the word.
If we want to see the same results that the first century church experienced then we need to be committed to the same testimony. Jesus promised to confirm the word with miracles (Mark 16:20). If one is going to preach properly then it is the "Ho Logos" or "The Word" which must be preached. This phrase is found 134 times in the New Testament and is defined by what Jesus preached.
When Jesus ministered He spoke "the word" (Mark 2:2; John 14:24). It was not His word but the word that the Father gave Him to speak (John 17:14; Luke 5:1; 11:28). His words were the living word that cannot pass away and stands as the judge of all mankind forever (John 5:24; 6:56; 12:48; Hebrews 4:12). His word is the source of eternal life and is the authority that produces all of the acts of deliverance (John 5:24; 8:51; 15:3; Matthew 8:8,16; Luke 4:36; 1 Peter 1:23). It was not subjective and applicable only to the crowd then present but a word that lives and abides forever (Matthew 24:35; Mark 13:31;Luke 1:2; 21:33; John 17:17). Jesus first defined the importance of His words when He said that everyone who hears is word and acts on it is like a wise man who builds his house upon a rock (Matthew 7:24).
The same eternal realm of the Spirit that Jesus spoke these words from is the same realm that functioned in the apostles to recall what was spoken (John 14:26; John 16:13; 2 Peter 1:21; 1 Thessalonians 2:13). Those who would relegate this to a human realm of memory and intellect have yet to view the realms of glory from which these words were spoken. The word is the testimony of Jesus Christ which God's people have been empowered by the Holy Spirit to deliver. Make no mistake "The Word" is defined as the message of Jesus Christ. It is this testimony that we are privileged to be instructed in by the books laid down in the New Testament of the Bible. Certainly, if God can work the miracle to incarnate the Word into human flesh then He can work the miracle to supply us with the accurate testimony of the Word of life. The apostles had probably made provision for at least some part of the New Testament "word" to be available in written form by this time. To believe that the apostles were any less vigilant than to make the Word available in written form before the company of saints were scattered would be very naive.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Acts 8:4 - Then those who were scattered went about preaching the word.
If we want to see the same results that the first century church experienced then we need to be committed to the same testimony. Jesus promised to confirm the word with miracles (Mark 16:20). If one is going to preach properly then it is the "Ho Logos" or "The Word" which must be preached. This phrase is found 134 times in the New Testament and is defined by what Jesus preached.
When Jesus ministered He spoke "the word" (Mark 2:2; John 14:24). It was not His word but the word that the Father gave Him to speak (John 17:14; Luke 5:1; 11:28). His words were the living word that cannot pass away and stands as the judge of all mankind forever (John 5:24; 6:56; 12:48; Hebrews 4:12). His word is the source of eternal life and is the authority that produces all of the acts of deliverance (John 5:24; 8:51; 15:3; Matthew 8:8,16; Luke 4:36; 1 Peter 1:23). It was not subjective and applicable only to the crowd then present but a word that lives and abides forever (Matthew 24:35; Mark 13:31;Luke 1:2; 21:33; John 17:17). Jesus first defined the importance of His words when He said that everyone who hears is word and acts on it is like a wise man who builds his house upon a rock (Matthew 7:24).
The same eternal realm of the Spirit that Jesus spoke these words from is the same realm that functioned in the apostles to recall what was spoken (John 14:26; John 16:13; 2 Peter 1:21; 1 Thessalonians 2:13). Those who would relegate this to a human realm of memory and intellect have yet to view the realms of glory from which these words were spoken. The word is the testimony of Jesus Christ which God's people have been empowered by the Holy Spirit to deliver. Make no mistake "The Word" is defined as the message of Jesus Christ. It is this testimony that we are privileged to be instructed in by the books laid down in the New Testament of the Bible. Certainly, if God can work the miracle to incarnate the Word into human flesh then He can work the miracle to supply us with the accurate testimony of the Word of life. The apostles had probably made provision for at least some part of the New Testament "word" to be available in written form by this time. To believe that the apostles were any less vigilant than to make the Word available in written form before the company of saints were scattered would be very naive.
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Daily Bread - 05/09/07
2 Peter 1:11 - For in this way you shall be richly supplied the entrance into the everlasting Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
One could simply view this scripture as an assurance to the obedient and diligent of being given a lavish entrance into the Kingdom of God at the time of death. Professor Salmond felt that this text was the reverse of "saved, yet so as by fire" (1 Corinthians 3:15). Yet there is more to this verse; for surely the purpose of our lives now to be the witnesses of the Lord Jesus Christ must take on more of the dimension of the life and glory of Jesus (John 14:12; 17:22).
The divine opportunities that are given to us now in the Kingdom of God cry out to us in the declaration, "Until you be endued with power from on high" (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8). Keeping in mind the fact that Paul said that the saints have been translated from the kingdom of this world into the kingdom of the Dear Son, we must be willing to embrace that we have already entered into some dimension of the Kingdom of God now (Colossians 1:14).
Jesus told the leaders of Israel that the Kingdom would be taken from them and given to another nation that would bring forth the fruits of the Kingdom (Matthew 21:43). Jesus also commanded us to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness as a way in which we daily live our lives (Matthew 6:33). Paul also gave us a description of the fruits of the Kingdom of God that should be manifested in our daily lives as evidence of our communion with God when he said, "For the Kingdom of God is not meat and drink but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost" (Romans 14:17). The only qualifications of entering into the Kingdom of God is having been born of the Spirit (John 3:5).
Peter is addressing the saints to take hold of a realm of consecration that will result in an increased revelation of God's glory now and no doubt a triumphant entry into the realms of that glory after this life on earth has ended. Although, as The Bible Exposition Commentary points out, "If we make lavish provision to grow spiritually (2 Peter 1:5), then God will make lavish provision for us when we enter heaven," it must also be observed that there is a lavish provision that we are to enter into now so that the 'Kingdom of Dear Son' may be revealed. If we are willing to function in the lavishly supplied riches of the Spirit to walk in the nature of God then there will also be a lavish supply of grace to function in the realms of the miracle glory of the Kingdom (2 Peter 1:5, 11).
The examples of those who stepped over into this realm of glory are many from Enoch to Paul. Surely there is a continual increase in the nature of God as well as the glory and power of God if we are willing to give ourselves wholly to His purposes. Paul opens the door to all saints to know the love of Christ that passes knowledge and to be filled with all of the fullness of God. He also sets forth the call to "the measure of the maturity of the fullness of Christ" (Ephesians 3:18-19; 4:13). We may be certain that God rewards those who diligently seek Him with the same kind of rewards that He gave to Enoch and all of those spoken of in the Bible (Hebrews 11:6). There awaits boundless insight into the glories of the inheritance and exceeding greatness of the power of Christ Jesus for all who are willing and obedient (Ephesians 1:18-19).
Peter is not referring to a works-based reward but to an obedience-based inheritance. The door is opened to explore the endless realms of the Spirit of God, but it is only through yielding to and obeying the Spirit of God that we may enter in and explore these unsearchable riches of Christ and gaze upon those things which 'eyes have not seen nor ears have heard nor has entered into the heart of man' (1 Corinthians 2:9; Ephesians 3:8-9).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
2 Peter 1:11 - For in this way you shall be richly supplied the entrance into the everlasting Kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
One could simply view this scripture as an assurance to the obedient and diligent of being given a lavish entrance into the Kingdom of God at the time of death. Professor Salmond felt that this text was the reverse of "saved, yet so as by fire" (1 Corinthians 3:15). Yet there is more to this verse; for surely the purpose of our lives now to be the witnesses of the Lord Jesus Christ must take on more of the dimension of the life and glory of Jesus (John 14:12; 17:22).
The divine opportunities that are given to us now in the Kingdom of God cry out to us in the declaration, "Until you be endued with power from on high" (Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8). Keeping in mind the fact that Paul said that the saints have been translated from the kingdom of this world into the kingdom of the Dear Son, we must be willing to embrace that we have already entered into some dimension of the Kingdom of God now (Colossians 1:14).
Jesus told the leaders of Israel that the Kingdom would be taken from them and given to another nation that would bring forth the fruits of the Kingdom (Matthew 21:43). Jesus also commanded us to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness as a way in which we daily live our lives (Matthew 6:33). Paul also gave us a description of the fruits of the Kingdom of God that should be manifested in our daily lives as evidence of our communion with God when he said, "For the Kingdom of God is not meat and drink but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost" (Romans 14:17). The only qualifications of entering into the Kingdom of God is having been born of the Spirit (John 3:5).
Peter is addressing the saints to take hold of a realm of consecration that will result in an increased revelation of God's glory now and no doubt a triumphant entry into the realms of that glory after this life on earth has ended. Although, as The Bible Exposition Commentary points out, "If we make lavish provision to grow spiritually (2 Peter 1:5), then God will make lavish provision for us when we enter heaven," it must also be observed that there is a lavish provision that we are to enter into now so that the 'Kingdom of Dear Son' may be revealed. If we are willing to function in the lavishly supplied riches of the Spirit to walk in the nature of God then there will also be a lavish supply of grace to function in the realms of the miracle glory of the Kingdom (2 Peter 1:5, 11).
The examples of those who stepped over into this realm of glory are many from Enoch to Paul. Surely there is a continual increase in the nature of God as well as the glory and power of God if we are willing to give ourselves wholly to His purposes. Paul opens the door to all saints to know the love of Christ that passes knowledge and to be filled with all of the fullness of God. He also sets forth the call to "the measure of the maturity of the fullness of Christ" (Ephesians 3:18-19; 4:13). We may be certain that God rewards those who diligently seek Him with the same kind of rewards that He gave to Enoch and all of those spoken of in the Bible (Hebrews 11:6). There awaits boundless insight into the glories of the inheritance and exceeding greatness of the power of Christ Jesus for all who are willing and obedient (Ephesians 1:18-19).
Peter is not referring to a works-based reward but to an obedience-based inheritance. The door is opened to explore the endless realms of the Spirit of God, but it is only through yielding to and obeying the Spirit of God that we may enter in and explore these unsearchable riches of Christ and gaze upon those things which 'eyes have not seen nor ears have heard nor has entered into the heart of man' (1 Corinthians 2:9; Ephesians 3:8-9).
Be blessed,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 05/08/07
Colossians 3:14 - And above all of these love, which is the bond of perfection.
Love is first in the list of the fruits of the Spirit and when it is allowed to rule us, joy and peace are sure to follow (Galatians 5:22). The Greek word that is used here literally means the middle item that joins two or more things together. Love is the bond that fuses our actions with God's (1 John 4:7-21). It is love that causes our hearts to be knit together with one another which then results in an ever-increasing manifestation of the glory and power of God in our loves collectively and individually (Ephesians 4:15-16; Colossians 2:2). Imagine what a blessing God's saints would be if they were clothed with love, allowed the peace of God to rule, and were always giving thanks (John 13:35; Ephesians 5:1-2; Colossians 3:15; 1Thessalonians 5:18). It is also important to recognize that for us to walk in love we need to be clothed with humility. Too often our own selfish interest takes over and all consciousness of responsibility is totally abandoned.
Walk in love
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Colossians 3:14 - And above all of these love, which is the bond of perfection.
Love is first in the list of the fruits of the Spirit and when it is allowed to rule us, joy and peace are sure to follow (Galatians 5:22). The Greek word that is used here literally means the middle item that joins two or more things together. Love is the bond that fuses our actions with God's (1 John 4:7-21). It is love that causes our hearts to be knit together with one another which then results in an ever-increasing manifestation of the glory and power of God in our loves collectively and individually (Ephesians 4:15-16; Colossians 2:2). Imagine what a blessing God's saints would be if they were clothed with love, allowed the peace of God to rule, and were always giving thanks (John 13:35; Ephesians 5:1-2; Colossians 3:15; 1Thessalonians 5:18). It is also important to recognize that for us to walk in love we need to be clothed with humility. Too often our own selfish interest takes over and all consciousness of responsibility is totally abandoned.
Walk in love
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 05/07/07
Colossians 1:15 - Whose image is that of the invisible God, first-born of all creation.
To understand the meaning of "firstborn of all creation" it must be understood in light of other doctrines that are clearly established in scripture. Most importantly is that Jesus is the Eternal God who has no beginning and no end (John 1:1; Isa 9:6; John 17:5; Titus 2:13). As God, the Word Jesus was the Creator who created everything in the Universe, a distinction that Paul is careful to make in the next verse (Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:2; John 1:3; Ephesians 3:9; 1 Corinthians 8:6).
Jesus may be understood as the firstborn in the sense of His priority and superiority over all things. Yet more importantly God, the Word, became the firstborn of the new creation and the only begotten Son of God when he was incarnated and born of a virgin named Mary (Jn 1:18; 3:16,18; Acts 13:33; Heb 1:5; 5:5; 1 John 4:9). He is the firstborn among many brethren because He was begotten of God as a Son so that now we too may be begotten of God and made sons (John 1:12-13; 1 John 3:1, 2, 9; 4:7; 5:1,4,18; Philippians 2:15; Romans 8:14; James 1:18; Galatians 4: 4-6). Because of the redemption that is in Christ Jesus we are also born of God and become sons of God and brethren to the Lord Jesus Christ (Hebrews 2:11; Romans 8:29; John 20:17; Matthew 12:50).
Paul also calls Jesus the "firstborn among many brethren" and the "firstborn from the dead" (Romans 8:20; Col 1:18). Jesus is the "firstborn of all creation" because it was through Him that all creation was redeemed (Colossians 1:20; Acts 4:12; Ephesians 1:10; Romans 11:36; Galatians 3:20; Hebrews 3:3; 1 Thessalonians 2:5). He is the "firstborn form among the dead" because He was the first to be raised from the dead and as a result we too shall be raised up in the likeness of His resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20, 23; Romans 6:5)
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Colossians 1:15 - Whose image is that of the invisible God, first-born of all creation.
To understand the meaning of "firstborn of all creation" it must be understood in light of other doctrines that are clearly established in scripture. Most importantly is that Jesus is the Eternal God who has no beginning and no end (John 1:1; Isa 9:6; John 17:5; Titus 2:13). As God, the Word Jesus was the Creator who created everything in the Universe, a distinction that Paul is careful to make in the next verse (Colossians 1:16; Hebrews 1:2; John 1:3; Ephesians 3:9; 1 Corinthians 8:6).
Jesus may be understood as the firstborn in the sense of His priority and superiority over all things. Yet more importantly God, the Word, became the firstborn of the new creation and the only begotten Son of God when he was incarnated and born of a virgin named Mary (Jn 1:18; 3:16,18; Acts 13:33; Heb 1:5; 5:5; 1 John 4:9). He is the firstborn among many brethren because He was begotten of God as a Son so that now we too may be begotten of God and made sons (John 1:12-13; 1 John 3:1, 2, 9; 4:7; 5:1,4,18; Philippians 2:15; Romans 8:14; James 1:18; Galatians 4: 4-6). Because of the redemption that is in Christ Jesus we are also born of God and become sons of God and brethren to the Lord Jesus Christ (Hebrews 2:11; Romans 8:29; John 20:17; Matthew 12:50).
Paul also calls Jesus the "firstborn among many brethren" and the "firstborn from the dead" (Romans 8:20; Col 1:18). Jesus is the "firstborn of all creation" because it was through Him that all creation was redeemed (Colossians 1:20; Acts 4:12; Ephesians 1:10; Romans 11:36; Galatians 3:20; Hebrews 3:3; 1 Thessalonians 2:5). He is the "firstborn form among the dead" because He was the first to be raised from the dead and as a result we too shall be raised up in the likeness of His resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:20, 23; Romans 6:5)
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 05/05/07
Isaiah 2:5 - O house of Jacob, come, and let us walk in the light of the LORD.
Today all of the nations of the earth have been given this glorious invitation. Although Satan has deceived many about the existence of God the opportunity remains for everyone to come and receive all of the untold benefits that are available in His presence. God who created every dimension of this wonderful thing that we call life and creation has a special place for us in His presence. The way into His presence is through the Lord Jesus Christ who by Himself broke the chains of darkness that held us back.
Through Christ Jesus, God destroyed the twisted nature that dominated every action of man and supplied to us a divine nature so that we could walk in the light as He is in the light (Ephesians 5:81: 2 Timothy 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 5:5 John 1:7). God is calling you today to come and walk before Him in the joy of all His goodness (Psalms 89:15; 16:11). Your heavenly Father wants you to walk today in the knowledge of His love for you. He wants you to be aware of His determination to give you all things freely to enjoy (Romans 8:32; 1 Corinthians 2:12). Do not allow this day to be wasted. Realize that you have access unto God by the Spirit and that this day was giving to you to come to know the ageless one who desires to reveal all of the wonders of eternity to you (Ephesians 2:18; 1:18-20).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Isaiah 2:5 - O house of Jacob, come, and let us walk in the light of the LORD.
Today all of the nations of the earth have been given this glorious invitation. Although Satan has deceived many about the existence of God the opportunity remains for everyone to come and receive all of the untold benefits that are available in His presence. God who created every dimension of this wonderful thing that we call life and creation has a special place for us in His presence. The way into His presence is through the Lord Jesus Christ who by Himself broke the chains of darkness that held us back.
Through Christ Jesus, God destroyed the twisted nature that dominated every action of man and supplied to us a divine nature so that we could walk in the light as He is in the light (Ephesians 5:81: 2 Timothy 1:10; 1 Thessalonians 5:5 John 1:7). God is calling you today to come and walk before Him in the joy of all His goodness (Psalms 89:15; 16:11). Your heavenly Father wants you to walk today in the knowledge of His love for you. He wants you to be aware of His determination to give you all things freely to enjoy (Romans 8:32; 1 Corinthians 2:12). Do not allow this day to be wasted. Realize that you have access unto God by the Spirit and that this day was giving to you to come to know the ageless one who desires to reveal all of the wonders of eternity to you (Ephesians 2:18; 1:18-20).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 05/04/07
1 Peter 2:6 - For this reason it is underscored in the scriptures, Behold I lay in Zion a corner stone chosen precious and those who believe on Him shall not be ashamed.
This quote is from Isaiah 28:16, "Therefore this is what my Lord YHWH says, behold I have laid in Zion a foundation stone: a proven stone, a precious cornerstone, a secure foundation, the believing shall not panic". The fragment of this verse that is quoted serves to point to Jesus Christ as the one who came to fulfill that which Father promised by His prophet Isaiah.
The context in Isaiah 28 is that everyone shall be measured by the cornerstone if they fail to line up with this chosen and proven cornerstone, then they shall be thrown away. The measuring line shall be justice and the leveling rod or plummet line shall be righteousness. The spiritual house is built by living stones that are placed into the building by the Holy Spirit because they meet the standards and qualifications of the cornerstone. We were made these living stones through the miracle of the new birth in Christ Jesus and there is no one that God will reject if they come to Him by Christ Jesus. Now through the grace of God in Christ Jesus we grow and mature in every attribute of His Holy Nature (1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18; Ephesians 2:21; 4:15). Jesus who is the author and finisher of our faith perfects everything that concerns us (Hebrews 12:2; Philippians 1:6; 2:13; 1 Corinthians 1:8).
All we must do is stay yielded to Him and the Holy Spirit will train us in all of the ways of the divine nature (John 16:13; 14:26; Romans 6:19). If we trust Him no matter what the short comings we will discover that we will never be ashamed for He is always there to show His love and mercy. As we walk out a relationship of hungering and thirsting after righteousness we will find ourselves prepared by the Master unto every good work (2 Timothy 2:21; Hebrews 13:21; Matthew 5:6). God's standard is high but His mercy is great!
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 Peter 2:6 - For this reason it is underscored in the scriptures, Behold I lay in Zion a corner stone chosen precious and those who believe on Him shall not be ashamed.
This quote is from Isaiah 28:16, "Therefore this is what my Lord YHWH says, behold I have laid in Zion a foundation stone: a proven stone, a precious cornerstone, a secure foundation, the believing shall not panic". The fragment of this verse that is quoted serves to point to Jesus Christ as the one who came to fulfill that which Father promised by His prophet Isaiah.
The context in Isaiah 28 is that everyone shall be measured by the cornerstone if they fail to line up with this chosen and proven cornerstone, then they shall be thrown away. The measuring line shall be justice and the leveling rod or plummet line shall be righteousness. The spiritual house is built by living stones that are placed into the building by the Holy Spirit because they meet the standards and qualifications of the cornerstone. We were made these living stones through the miracle of the new birth in Christ Jesus and there is no one that God will reject if they come to Him by Christ Jesus. Now through the grace of God in Christ Jesus we grow and mature in every attribute of His Holy Nature (1 Peter 2:2; 2 Peter 3:18; Ephesians 2:21; 4:15). Jesus who is the author and finisher of our faith perfects everything that concerns us (Hebrews 12:2; Philippians 1:6; 2:13; 1 Corinthians 1:8).
All we must do is stay yielded to Him and the Holy Spirit will train us in all of the ways of the divine nature (John 16:13; 14:26; Romans 6:19). If we trust Him no matter what the short comings we will discover that we will never be ashamed for He is always there to show His love and mercy. As we walk out a relationship of hungering and thirsting after righteousness we will find ourselves prepared by the Master unto every good work (2 Timothy 2:21; Hebrews 13:21; Matthew 5:6). God's standard is high but His mercy is great!
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 05/03/07
Colossians 3:5 - Therefore put to death your members which are upon the earth fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil desires, covetousness which is idolatry.
Members (melos) may be used of either the physical parts or the spiritual parts of man. Our members may be yielded to God and used as weapons of righteousness or to sin as weapons of unrighteousness (Romans 6:13; 1 Corinthians 6:15). In the spiritual dimension mans members refer to his attitudes, affections, emotions, passions and thoughts. We may also think of our unseen members as the spirit, soul, mind, heart, will, conscious and thought. In this passage earthly members are identified as fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affections, evil desires and covetousness. When the power of sin would attempt to influence us we are to yield our members unto God as weapons of righteousness. By the act of yielding our members to God those evil things that would attempt to work in our members through the power of sin are destroyed. All that is in the world the lust of the flesh the lust of the eye and the pride of life will war against us but as we allow the Holy Spirit to wield our members as weapons of righteousness the power of sin cannot exercise dominion over us (Romans 6:7,12; 1 Peter 2:1) .
When the physical member the eye looks and beholds that which the realm of sin would turn into adultery or fornication Jesus said it would be better to pluck it out so that such influence would not lead the whole body into eternal destruction (Matthew 5:29). In this sense Paul is addressing the church into absolute conformity to Gods rule. Therefore, the members must be put to death that would cause an offense. Not that God would require self-mutilation but an absolute conformity to His word. An excellent example of this is given by the Theological Dictionary with regards to the disposition that God's people should have towards the things they speak, "This means that the sinful use of the tongue, being radically condemned to death, can have no more place" (Theological Dictionary of the New Testament. S. 4:565). Paul takes us one step further with our members and reveals to us that our members are joined to one another and unto Christ (1 Corinthians 6:15,17; Ephesians 5:30; John 6:56; 14:20,23; 15:5; 17:11,21,22,23,26; Colossians 1:27; 1 John 3:24; 4:13,15-16; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 2:10; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19; 2 Corinthians 6:16; 2 Timothy 1:14; Romans 8:9-11).
Keeping in mind that Paul likens our members to slaves and the slave can only do what the master allows (Romans 6:19). As the redeemed of the Lord our Master Christ Jesus rules over us in righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10; 2 Corinthians 5:17-18). God has called us to set all of our affections on things above and not on things of this earth. Sin would like to play its melody (melos) in our members but the people of God are to only yield their members to the influence of the Holy Spirit.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Colossians 3:5 - Therefore put to death your members which are upon the earth fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil desires, covetousness which is idolatry.
Members (melos) may be used of either the physical parts or the spiritual parts of man. Our members may be yielded to God and used as weapons of righteousness or to sin as weapons of unrighteousness (Romans 6:13; 1 Corinthians 6:15). In the spiritual dimension mans members refer to his attitudes, affections, emotions, passions and thoughts. We may also think of our unseen members as the spirit, soul, mind, heart, will, conscious and thought. In this passage earthly members are identified as fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affections, evil desires and covetousness. When the power of sin would attempt to influence us we are to yield our members unto God as weapons of righteousness. By the act of yielding our members to God those evil things that would attempt to work in our members through the power of sin are destroyed. All that is in the world the lust of the flesh the lust of the eye and the pride of life will war against us but as we allow the Holy Spirit to wield our members as weapons of righteousness the power of sin cannot exercise dominion over us (Romans 6:7,12; 1 Peter 2:1) .
When the physical member the eye looks and beholds that which the realm of sin would turn into adultery or fornication Jesus said it would be better to pluck it out so that such influence would not lead the whole body into eternal destruction (Matthew 5:29). In this sense Paul is addressing the church into absolute conformity to Gods rule. Therefore, the members must be put to death that would cause an offense. Not that God would require self-mutilation but an absolute conformity to His word. An excellent example of this is given by the Theological Dictionary with regards to the disposition that God's people should have towards the things they speak, "This means that the sinful use of the tongue, being radically condemned to death, can have no more place" (Theological Dictionary of the New Testament. S. 4:565). Paul takes us one step further with our members and reveals to us that our members are joined to one another and unto Christ (1 Corinthians 6:15,17; Ephesians 5:30; John 6:56; 14:20,23; 15:5; 17:11,21,22,23,26; Colossians 1:27; 1 John 3:24; 4:13,15-16; Galatians 2:20; Ephesians 2:10; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19; 2 Corinthians 6:16; 2 Timothy 1:14; Romans 8:9-11).
Keeping in mind that Paul likens our members to slaves and the slave can only do what the master allows (Romans 6:19). As the redeemed of the Lord our Master Christ Jesus rules over us in righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:24; Colossians 3:10; 2 Corinthians 5:17-18). God has called us to set all of our affections on things above and not on things of this earth. Sin would like to play its melody (melos) in our members but the people of God are to only yield their members to the influence of the Holy Spirit.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 05/02/07
1 John 4:7 - Beloved let us love one another because he that loves is from God and everyone that loves is begotten of God and knows God.
The most important expression and evidence of the new birth is love. This kind of love is perfectly defined by the life of Jesus who revealed the love of God. The expression of God's love through man is only possible if a person has been begotten of God. God's love by definition is a holy love, one that is so giving and unselfish and was plainly revealed by God through the giving of His only begotten Son. This holy love fulfills all of the law and purpose of God for man in that it works no wrong-doing (Romans 13:10; 1 Corinthians 13:4-8).
The love of God is not expressed to a selective group of people but to the whole world (John 3:16 1 John 4:10; Titus 3:4; 1 Peter 1:17). The love of God causes the sun to shine upon the evil and the good and send rains for the righteous and the unrighteous (Matthew 5:45; Luke 6:35). It is God's nature to bless those who are offenders and persecutors and those of us have been born of Him are called to do the same (Romans 12:14; Luke 6:28). All of God's children are marked with the expression of God's divine love and holy nature. Unfortunately, there is probably not a more neglected subject among His people. Above all other things the expression of this unfailing love must be manifested among us if the world is to know that we have been born of Him (John 13:35; 1 John 2:5,10; 3:11; 4:21).
Above all other things it is our responsibility to show this love one for another among ourselves first and also to the whole world. If we fail to walk in love one for another then we have failed at the most fundamental and essential attribute of our calling (John 13:34; 15:12,17; Romans 12:10; 13:8; Galatians 5:13; 1 Thessalonians 4:9; 1 Peter1:22; 1 John 3:11,23: 1 John 4:11,12; 2 John 5). The message of love is expressed 320 times by the occurrence of the words which are translated love. However, far more words are used to describe its characteristics as it specifically relates to the nature of God and of His people. It is a subject central to the Bible, the Gospel, the Character of God and the revelation of His people. God who is Holy and who is Love has set us apart from the world separating us unto His Love. We should see ourselves totally separated for the purpose of God's love being revealed through us in every situation.
Walk in love!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 John 4:7 - Beloved let us love one another because he that loves is from God and everyone that loves is begotten of God and knows God.
The most important expression and evidence of the new birth is love. This kind of love is perfectly defined by the life of Jesus who revealed the love of God. The expression of God's love through man is only possible if a person has been begotten of God. God's love by definition is a holy love, one that is so giving and unselfish and was plainly revealed by God through the giving of His only begotten Son. This holy love fulfills all of the law and purpose of God for man in that it works no wrong-doing (Romans 13:10; 1 Corinthians 13:4-8).
The love of God is not expressed to a selective group of people but to the whole world (John 3:16 1 John 4:10; Titus 3:4; 1 Peter 1:17). The love of God causes the sun to shine upon the evil and the good and send rains for the righteous and the unrighteous (Matthew 5:45; Luke 6:35). It is God's nature to bless those who are offenders and persecutors and those of us have been born of Him are called to do the same (Romans 12:14; Luke 6:28). All of God's children are marked with the expression of God's divine love and holy nature. Unfortunately, there is probably not a more neglected subject among His people. Above all other things the expression of this unfailing love must be manifested among us if the world is to know that we have been born of Him (John 13:35; 1 John 2:5,10; 3:11; 4:21).
Above all other things it is our responsibility to show this love one for another among ourselves first and also to the whole world. If we fail to walk in love one for another then we have failed at the most fundamental and essential attribute of our calling (John 13:34; 15:12,17; Romans 12:10; 13:8; Galatians 5:13; 1 Thessalonians 4:9; 1 Peter1:22; 1 John 3:11,23: 1 John 4:11,12; 2 John 5). The message of love is expressed 320 times by the occurrence of the words which are translated love. However, far more words are used to describe its characteristics as it specifically relates to the nature of God and of His people. It is a subject central to the Bible, the Gospel, the Character of God and the revelation of His people. God who is Holy and who is Love has set us apart from the world separating us unto His Love. We should see ourselves totally separated for the purpose of God's love being revealed through us in every situation.
Walk in love!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 05/01/07
1 John 2:17 - And the world passes away and its desires but he who does the will of God abides forever.
The world and its desires are only temporary. The world system is opposed to the will of God and the Kingdom of God. The god of this world has already been judged and one day his rule will come to an end and his influence will cease to exist forever ( John 12:31; Colossians 2:15; Ephesians 2:2; Revelation 20:14) . There is only one thing right now in the world of men that will endure for ever and that is the word of God (1 Peter 1:23-25; Psalms 119:89; Isaiah 40:8; Luke 16:17). The Psalmist said, "the law of the Lord is perfect converting the soul: the testimonies of the Lord is sure making wise the simple. The statues of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandments of the Lord are pure, enlightening the eyes. More to be desired are they than gold yes than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is your servant warned and in keeping of them there is great reward." (Psalms 19:7-10)
Doing the will of the Father has many blessings associated with it. Doing the will of the Father converts the soul, makes the simple man wise, causes the heart to rejoice, brings enlightenment and more benefits than can be numbered (Psalms 103:2; 68:19; Philippians 4:19). In reality doing the will of the Father leads us to the greatest treasures that can be found. The reward of doing His will is not only eternal life but abundant life. God created life and He alone knows how it works. Just as there is a consequence for breaking the natural laws that govern the earth there is a consequence for breaking the spiritual laws that govern the earth. If we want to walk in the abundance of blessings then we will obey the spiritual laws and reap an abundant life that last forever ( Galatians 6:7- 8; Job 4:8; Proverbs 1:31; Psalms 1; 1 Corinthians 6:9; Ephesians 5:6; Romans 8:2; Hosea 10:12; Proverbs 11:18).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 John 2:17 - And the world passes away and its desires but he who does the will of God abides forever.
The world and its desires are only temporary. The world system is opposed to the will of God and the Kingdom of God. The god of this world has already been judged and one day his rule will come to an end and his influence will cease to exist forever ( John 12:31; Colossians 2:15; Ephesians 2:2; Revelation 20:14) . There is only one thing right now in the world of men that will endure for ever and that is the word of God (1 Peter 1:23-25; Psalms 119:89; Isaiah 40:8; Luke 16:17). The Psalmist said, "the law of the Lord is perfect converting the soul: the testimonies of the Lord is sure making wise the simple. The statues of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandments of the Lord are pure, enlightening the eyes. More to be desired are they than gold yes than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is your servant warned and in keeping of them there is great reward." (Psalms 19:7-10)
Doing the will of the Father has many blessings associated with it. Doing the will of the Father converts the soul, makes the simple man wise, causes the heart to rejoice, brings enlightenment and more benefits than can be numbered (Psalms 103:2; 68:19; Philippians 4:19). In reality doing the will of the Father leads us to the greatest treasures that can be found. The reward of doing His will is not only eternal life but abundant life. God created life and He alone knows how it works. Just as there is a consequence for breaking the natural laws that govern the earth there is a consequence for breaking the spiritual laws that govern the earth. If we want to walk in the abundance of blessings then we will obey the spiritual laws and reap an abundant life that last forever ( Galatians 6:7- 8; Job 4:8; Proverbs 1:31; Psalms 1; 1 Corinthians 6:9; Ephesians 5:6; Romans 8:2; Hosea 10:12; Proverbs 11:18).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 04/30/07
1 John 2:6 - He that says he abides in Him ought himself to walk also just as He walks.
The gospel message of "being in Him" is one of the most important in the New Testament. The two phrases "to be in" (Gr- "einai en") and "to abide in" (Gr- "menein en") are for the most part interchangeable as in John 14:10. The importance of being "in Him" is highlighted by scriptures such as "If any man be in Christ Jesus he is a new creature", 2 Corinthians 5:17, also John 15:4,5,7,10; 2 Cor. 5:21; Eph. 1:4; Php 3:9; Col 2:6, 7, 10; 1 John 2:27, 28; 3:5,6,24; 4:16; 5:20.
The ability to behave just like Jesus comes to us by the anointing that we have received from Him. In fact "abiding in Him" and having "the anointing" are inseparably linked. The promise that God gave to anyone who would believe was that we would be born of the Spirit and subsequently Jesus would baptize us with the Holy Spirit (John 3:5; 1 John 2:27; Acts 1:8; Acts 8:15-16). He promised us the same Spirit and the same anointing that He was baptized with (Luke 4:18).
The idea of abiding in Him is communicated in a unique way in John 15 to help us understand how the supply of this divine ability flows into our lives. We learn that we can depend on Jesus for everything that we need and that without Him we can do nothing. As we grow in this relationship we discover an ever increasing supernatural flow of the grace of God into our lives. Even the love and trust that we have for Him grows and increases reaching beyond that which we find in ourselves as it flows into our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5; Ephesians 3:19; 1 Thessalonians 3:12). As we grow in grace we discover that there is an inseparable union between us and the Lord Jesus even as a vine and a branch, (John 15:1-6;1 John 3:23; 2 Peter 3:18).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 John 2:6 - He that says he abides in Him ought himself to walk also just as He walks.
The gospel message of "being in Him" is one of the most important in the New Testament. The two phrases "to be in" (Gr- "einai en") and "to abide in" (Gr- "menein en") are for the most part interchangeable as in John 14:10. The importance of being "in Him" is highlighted by scriptures such as "If any man be in Christ Jesus he is a new creature", 2 Corinthians 5:17, also John 15:4,5,7,10; 2 Cor. 5:21; Eph. 1:4; Php 3:9; Col 2:6, 7, 10; 1 John 2:27, 28; 3:5,6,24; 4:16; 5:20.
The ability to behave just like Jesus comes to us by the anointing that we have received from Him. In fact "abiding in Him" and having "the anointing" are inseparably linked. The promise that God gave to anyone who would believe was that we would be born of the Spirit and subsequently Jesus would baptize us with the Holy Spirit (John 3:5; 1 John 2:27; Acts 1:8; Acts 8:15-16). He promised us the same Spirit and the same anointing that He was baptized with (Luke 4:18).
The idea of abiding in Him is communicated in a unique way in John 15 to help us understand how the supply of this divine ability flows into our lives. We learn that we can depend on Jesus for everything that we need and that without Him we can do nothing. As we grow in this relationship we discover an ever increasing supernatural flow of the grace of God into our lives. Even the love and trust that we have for Him grows and increases reaching beyond that which we find in ourselves as it flows into our hearts by the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:5; Ephesians 3:19; 1 Thessalonians 3:12). As we grow in grace we discover that there is an inseparable union between us and the Lord Jesus even as a vine and a branch, (John 15:1-6;1 John 3:23; 2 Peter 3:18).
Be blessed!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Daily Bread - 04/28/07
1 John 4:13 - By this we know that we abide in Him and He abides in us because of the Spirit that He has given us.
Jesus dwells in us by the Spirit that He has given unto us (1 John 3:23; John 14:23). As a result then we are privileged to dwell in Him and as we dwell in Him we dwell in His love. This relationship of love is key to all of the power and blessings of God being manifested in and through our lives (Galatians 5:16;1 John 4:16; Ephesians 3:17-18). It is through our love one for another that our union with God is revealed. It is by this divine love that all men will know that we are His disciples (John 13:35). It is this divine love of the Father that is the evidences or fruits that the Spirit of God dwells in us.
The love of God is in us because the Holy Spirit has poured His love into our hearts (Romans 5:5). This kind of love does not have a human origin and we must both depend upon and yield to the Holy Spirit for it to be revealed through us. The kind of love that we have been given to bless one another with is the same love that Jesus has for us (John 13:34).
Walk in love!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
1 John 4:13 - By this we know that we abide in Him and He abides in us because of the Spirit that He has given us.
Jesus dwells in us by the Spirit that He has given unto us (1 John 3:23; John 14:23). As a result then we are privileged to dwell in Him and as we dwell in Him we dwell in His love. This relationship of love is key to all of the power and blessings of God being manifested in and through our lives (Galatians 5:16;1 John 4:16; Ephesians 3:17-18). It is through our love one for another that our union with God is revealed. It is by this divine love that all men will know that we are His disciples (John 13:35). It is this divine love of the Father that is the evidences or fruits that the Spirit of God dwells in us.
The love of God is in us because the Holy Spirit has poured His love into our hearts (Romans 5:5). This kind of love does not have a human origin and we must both depend upon and yield to the Holy Spirit for it to be revealed through us. The kind of love that we have been given to bless one another with is the same love that Jesus has for us (John 13:34).
Walk in love!
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Friday, April 27, 2007
Daily Bread - 04/27/07
Colossians 2:2 - "That your hearts might be encouraged joined together in love and unto all riches of the full assurance of the understanding unto an exact knowledge of the mystery of the Father God and the Christ."
There is a key given to us throughout the scripture that allows us to understand how to come into all of the fullness of God. Paul revealed in Ephesians 3 that as a result of knowing the love of Christ we can be filled with the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:19). Jesus made loving one another the precursor to fullness of joy (John 15:11). He also made this love one for another the means by which all men would know that we are His disciples (John 13:35). Jesus made it very clear that if we would love Him that both He and the Father would come and make their dwelling with us (John 14:23).
The realm of love is the realm where God dwells, and, so, when we dwell in love we dwell in God (1 John 4:16). We learn that love is the greatest and most important thing of all. It is by love that faith works, and it is through love that salvation was brought to us (1 Corinthians 13:13; Galatians 5:6; John 3:16). With 115 commands and examples given to us of the importance of love we should make it the foremost priority of our lives.
Perhaps we spend so much time and effort searching for a model, and a hidden key to revival, and an increase in the anointing, and the manifest presence of God while the whole time we pass over the answer. If we would only give ourselves over to His love continually and completely we would realize all of the things in God that we have desired. I am certain that on the Day of Judgment we are going to be primarily brought into question on how well we loved.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Colossians 2:2 - "That your hearts might be encouraged joined together in love and unto all riches of the full assurance of the understanding unto an exact knowledge of the mystery of the Father God and the Christ."
There is a key given to us throughout the scripture that allows us to understand how to come into all of the fullness of God. Paul revealed in Ephesians 3 that as a result of knowing the love of Christ we can be filled with the fullness of God (Ephesians 3:19). Jesus made loving one another the precursor to fullness of joy (John 15:11). He also made this love one for another the means by which all men would know that we are His disciples (John 13:35). Jesus made it very clear that if we would love Him that both He and the Father would come and make their dwelling with us (John 14:23).
The realm of love is the realm where God dwells, and, so, when we dwell in love we dwell in God (1 John 4:16). We learn that love is the greatest and most important thing of all. It is by love that faith works, and it is through love that salvation was brought to us (1 Corinthians 13:13; Galatians 5:6; John 3:16). With 115 commands and examples given to us of the importance of love we should make it the foremost priority of our lives.
Perhaps we spend so much time and effort searching for a model, and a hidden key to revival, and an increase in the anointing, and the manifest presence of God while the whole time we pass over the answer. If we would only give ourselves over to His love continually and completely we would realize all of the things in God that we have desired. I am certain that on the Day of Judgment we are going to be primarily brought into question on how well we loved.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
Thursday, April 26, 2007
Daily Bread - 04/26/07
John 14:1 - "Do not allow your heart to be troubled; have faith in God also have faith in me."
The heart is the spiritual place in man where faith works. Paul said that the faith is in the heart and in the mouth (Romans 10:10). In keeping with the simile of the heart, we may understand the spiritual heart to be that which supplies life to the whole of the inner man as the physical heart supplies blood to the organs of the body. In Proverbs we learn that the heart is the place where the word is to be kept and that the heart is to be kept with all diligence for the issues of life flow out of it (Proverbs 4:20-23).
At the end of this chapter Jesus says, "let not your heart be troubled and do not be afraid" (14:27). Jesus reveals how that fear is opposed to faith in His commands to those who were looking for a miracle as in Luke 8:50, "Fear not, believe only, and she shall be made whole." Jesus also draws out the association of fear and doubt in the situation of Peter walking on the water who when he became afraid began to sink. Jesus revealed that the fear was associated with the doubt when He said, "why did you doubt?" (Matthew 14:30-31). Don't look to your human ability today but keep the eyes of your heart fixed on His Word.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
John 14:1 - "Do not allow your heart to be troubled; have faith in God also have faith in me."
The heart is the spiritual place in man where faith works. Paul said that the faith is in the heart and in the mouth (Romans 10:10). In keeping with the simile of the heart, we may understand the spiritual heart to be that which supplies life to the whole of the inner man as the physical heart supplies blood to the organs of the body. In Proverbs we learn that the heart is the place where the word is to be kept and that the heart is to be kept with all diligence for the issues of life flow out of it (Proverbs 4:20-23).
At the end of this chapter Jesus says, "let not your heart be troubled and do not be afraid" (14:27). Jesus reveals how that fear is opposed to faith in His commands to those who were looking for a miracle as in Luke 8:50, "Fear not, believe only, and she shall be made whole." Jesus also draws out the association of fear and doubt in the situation of Peter walking on the water who when he became afraid began to sink. Jesus revealed that the fear was associated with the doubt when He said, "why did you doubt?" (Matthew 14:30-31). Don't look to your human ability today but keep the eyes of your heart fixed on His Word.
Blessings,
Pastor Mark Spitsbergen
abidingplace.org
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